On Wednesday, May 11, Forbes released their annual list of the highest-paid athletes in the world. Argentina and PSG forward Lionel Messi was the highest-paid sportsperson over the past year with earnings of $130 million, as per Forbes’ list. It is the second time that Messi has topped the list. He is followed by LeBron James ($121.2 million) and Cristiano Ronaldo ($115 million)
Los Angeles Lakers star James, who earned a total of $121.2 million, smashed his previous record of $96.5 million established last year. Portugal captain Ronaldo, who earned $115 million was third on the list. Two more names in the top 5 were Brazilian soccer player Neymar with $95 million. Golden State Warriors’ three-time NBA champion Stephen Curry with $92.8 million.
Virat Kohli the only cricketer in the top 100
NBA star Kevin Durant with $92 million finished at sixth position. Tennis legend Roger Federer was next with $90.7 million in earnings after competing in only five events in 2021 due to a knee injury. Canelo Alvarez ($90 million), Tom Brady ($83.9 million), and Giannis Antetokounmpo ($80.9 million) rounded out the last three slots on the list of top 10. According to Forbes, on-field earnings comprise all prize money, salary, and bonuses received over 12 months, and off-field earnings are an approximation of endorsement deals, appearance fees, and licensing revenue.
Meanwhile, the 2022 Sportico list of the Top 100 highest-paid athletes in the world has Virat Kohli on the list. Kohli is at 61st position on the list. Not only he is the only Indian but also the only cricketer to make it to the list. He earned $33.9 million, including $31m in endorsements. Here is a list of the top 10 highest-paid athletes.
Forbes top 10 highest-paid athletes
- Lionel Messi – $130 Million
- LeBron James – $121 million
- Cristiano Ronaldo – $115 million
- Neymar – $95 million
- Stephen Curry – $92.8 million
- Kevin Durant – $92 million
- Roger Federer – $90.7 million
- Canelo Alvarez – $90 million
- Tom Brady – $83.9 million
- Giannis Antetokounmpo – $80.9 million
